Robotics Takes Education Beyond Classroom Walls

How a telepresence robot is changing some classrooms

Thanks to recent strides in robotics and mobile devices, telepresence technology has opened up numerous possibilities at both the K-12 and higher-ed levels, where remote observation and communication can come in handy.

Our take

Robots In The Classroom—With Your Teachers’ Faces

Robotics technology now exists that can bring “outsiders” into the classroom to observe and interact in settings like special education classrooms, rural schools or even at students’ homes when they’re ill or otherwise unable to attend classes. What are the pros and cons of this new technology?

Remote interactions are unlikely to ever replace the real thing, but this type of technology holds benefits for both students and teachers in a variety of ways. While the technology is still evolving, the examples shared in this piece illustrate some practical applications. Traveling teachers can still interact with their students. Homebound students can engage in classroom discussion. Rural students can benefit from the insights of experts from around the world. The benefits of new technology can extend far beyond virtual field trips.

In many schools across the United States, computer science initiatives are lacking. New York plans to tackle the issue straightaway with a plan titled “Computer Science for All” that entails delivering a computer science education to every student in the New York public school program.